Variable Ratio Couplers for Flexible Fiber Optic Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional fiber optic couplers have fixed power level splits, limiting flexibility and adaptability in fiber optic networks, making it difficult to modify networks in response to changes such as adding new customers or adjusting for different loss budgets.
Innovation Solution
Fiber optic terminals equipped with variable ratio couplers that allow adjustable power level splits, enabling flexible network customization without requiring energy consumption, and providing stable performance across varying conditions and wide wavelength ranges.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional fixed ratio couplers are used, then the device structure is simple and manufacturing is easy, but the network adaptability and flexibility are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a variable ratio coupler where the power split ratio can be dynamically adjusted between different output ports. This is achieved through a mechanical adjustment mechanism that changes the coupling characteristics of the coupler, allowing the network to adapt to different configurations and requirements without replacing the entire coupler device.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameters of the coupler by allowing adjustment of the power split ratio. The coupler can be configured to distribute optical power in various ratios (e.g., 50:50, 70:30, 90:10) depending on network needs, providing flexibility while maintaining a single physical device structure.
2Adaptability or versatility
If fixed power level splits are used, then manufacturing and inventory management are simple, but network customization and modification are difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The variable ratio coupler serves multiple functions within a single device. It can operate as different types of couplers (50:50 splitter, 70:30 splitter, 90:10 splitter, etc.) depending on the adjustment setting, eliminating the need to manufacture and stock multiple different fixed-ratio coupler models for various network configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupler incorporates an adjustment mechanism that allows the power split ratio to be changed after manufacturing. This dynamic capability enables a single manufactured unit to serve multiple network customization needs, reducing inventory complexity while providing full customization flexibility.
3Ease of operation
If conventional multiports with fixed couplers are used, then deployment is quick and easy, but flexibility for network changes is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The multiport device incorporates a variable ratio coupler with an adjustment mechanism that allows network operators to modify the power distribution ratio in the field. This maintains the quick deployment advantage while adding the flexibility to adapt to network changes such as adding new customers or adjusting for different loss budgets.
Data Source
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AI summary
Fiber optic terminals and fiber optic networks having variable ratio couplers are disclosed. The fiber optic terminals comprise a shell having a portion of a variable ratio coupler disposed therein. The variable ratio coupler comprises an optical input, a first optical output, a second optical output and a control. The control may be adjusted for changing an output power level between the first optical output and the second optical output.